Research in SRI's Sensor Systems Laboratory encompasses development and testing of remote sensing systems for detection of atmospheric aerosols and chemicals, ultrasensitive trace gas detection systems based on frequency modulation spectroscopy, and biological detection using upconverting phosphor and fluorescence detection technologies.

The laboratory's scientists and engineers are recognized internationally for contributions to optical remote sensing, trace gas sensing, and biodetection methods. We are at the forefront of innovations such as the first differential absorption lidar systems for the detection of chemical warfare agents, fluorescence lidars for biological agent detection, airborne backscatter and Raman lidar, compact digital lidar systems, frequency modulation spectroscopy using near- and mid-infrared laser sources, and compact biosensing instrumentation and processing methods for rapid detection and identification of pathogens.

Staff members have backgrounds in physics, chemistry, electrical engineering, microscience, vacuum microelectronics, and biomedical engineering, with specific expertise in the following areas:

• Compact chemical and biological sensor development

• Sensor modeling and phenomenology

• Microfluidic devices

• Biological sample processing

• Optical spectroscopy and sensing

• Analog and digital circuit design